New plans for a ‘state-of-the-art stadium’ have been detailed by Sale Sharks, as the Premiership Rugby side looks to return to its hometown.
Since 2012, the side has been playing its home games at the AJ Bell stadium in Eccles. The proposed plans will see the stadium be part of an ‘early stage vision’ for the Crossford Bridge Community Sports Village in Sale.
A Sale Sharks spokesperson stated: “These exciting plans give us an opportunity to lay down roots and establish an accessible, long-term home for Sale Sharks that we can all be proud of.
“From both our elite men’s and women’s teams to the Sharks Community Trust; being a part of this vision will mean we can have a positive impact in Sale for years to come.”
During a promotional video highlighting Sale Sharks’ proposed vision, the club expects that should the stadium plans be approved it will provide an ‘unrivalled matchday experience with excellent transport links and world-class hospitality’.
Additionally, the club believes the move will be ‘a catalyst for the local economy’ and ‘a place that inspires the next generation’ from the region.
Sale Sharks currently sit 2nd in the Gallagher Premiership, five points behind top of the table Exeter Chiefs. Premiership Rugby is expected to resume the competition on 15 August following a board meeting last week, with plans being discussed as to how to conclude the campaign.
According to The Telegraph Sport, the venue is expected to have a capacity between 8000 to 12,000, with the later figure being the same size as the Sale Sharks’ current ground.
Insider Insight: If Sale Sharks’ proposed plans are approved then it will undoubtedly be a welcome homecoming to the club’s fans. The new stadium will also be able to continue to develop the Premiership Rugby side’s infrastructure for both its men, youth and women’s teams.